Greece: Poets march against austerity

Athens
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"The children of Homer" marked Wednesday's World Poetry Day by marching against Greek austerity in Athens. Writers and academics joined poets' marching in a different kind of protest.

The News quoted poet George Houliaras saying “This is not just another protest—it’s a different protest....to show a different image of the country, and remind Greeks that the power of culture can help us emerge from the situation we find ourselves in.”

According to Athens News the poets' carried placards bearing excerpts from the work of great Greek poets, as the words of "Homer, Cavafy and Nobel laureates Elytis and Seferis echoed over the loudspeakers."

Security is being tightened for this years annual Independence Day March on March 25 commemorating the 1821 War of Independence, as authorities fear anti-austerity protesters could disrupt the parades. Ekathimerinireports that all police leave has been cancelled to ensure Saturday's traditional marches by schoolchildren, and Sunday's parade, pass without interference.

Athens News reported that disabled military veterans are protesting against austerity measures by not participating in Sunday's parade in Athens.